What tariffs are in place?

So far, the US has imposed three rounds of tariffs on Chinese goods, totalling more than $250bn (£191.9bn). They cover a wide range of consumer and industrial items including handbags, rice and railway equipment.

The duties range from 10% to 25%. Mr Trump has since threatened to hit another $267bn worth of goods – meaning all Chinese imports could be subject to tariffs.

The US has also put tariffs on worldwide imports of goods like steel and washing machines, which further affects products from China.

Beijing has struck back. It’s accused the US of starting “the largest trade war in economic history” and imposed tariffs on $110bn worth of American goods.

China’s list of products subject to levies – which range from 5% to 25% – includes chemicals, coal and medical equipment. The moves have been strategic, targeting products made in Republican districts, and goods – like soybeans – that can be purchased elsewhere.

Why tariffs?

Tariffs, in theory, make US-made products cheaper than imported ones, and encourage consumers to buy American.